C-Section Birth Stories: Jessi Unger

1. Please share the circumstances that led to your c-section birth(s):

We found out my daughter was breech at 33 weeks. Although we were told she had plenty of time to turn to the correct position on her own, we promptly started the “circus” of postural exercises, chiropractic adjustments, and other bizarre techniques like moxibustion and hot/cold stimulation. Despite our best efforts, our stubborn girl remained breech, and after an external cephalic version (ECV) that didn't work at 39 weeks, we scheduled a c-section.

2. What surprised you the most about having a c-section?:

What surprised me most was my mental reaction to having a c-section. Although I knew we tried everything to help her flip (the ECV was NOT a fun experience), I couldn’t help but feel like a failure as a mom even before my daughter’s arrival.

3. What kind of support do you feel you received (from friends, family, healthcare team) after your c-section(s)?:

Although my husband and I chose not to have guests for the first few weeks due to Covid, I received a ton of support from friends and family from afar. My sister and close friend both have their own c-section experiences, and although their stories are very different, it was so helpful to talk to other moms who knew the physical and emotional struggles I was going through. My husband was incredibly supportive and took care of the cooking, cleaning, laundry, and diaper changes for the first two weeks. We also had some friends drop off food and supplies without requesting to come in to see the baby.

4. What’s your #1 piece of advice/encouragement for a new c-section mom?:

It's going to be okay! No one cares how you gave birth to your beautiful baby, and even you won’t care as much once he or she arrives. It is major surgery, and you should be proud of how much your body and brain have handled. Lastly, you will start to feel much much better after a week or so. It gets better!

5. How do you believe having a c-section birth(s) made you stronger?:

Although I really wanted to have a vaginal, unmedicated birth, I am equally as proud to have braved a c-section, and I am proud of the scar that is proof. Sometimes being a parent means making sacrifices, and this change in my birth plan has prepared me for the fact that things don’t always go as planned!

Name: Jessi Unger

Your Profession: Dental Hygienist

How to Connect With You on Social Media: @dirtanddahlias on Instagram